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3 Tips for Buying a Great Used Pickup Truck

Buying a used pickup truck is a great way to save money and allows you to enjoy the mobility and convenience a pickup truck has to offer. But like any vehicle, there are specific things you have to look for when buying a pickup. These should not be overlooked since you’re most likely going to use the truck for some heavy-duty work. Here are some tips when buying a used pickup.

1. Double Check Diesel Vehicles

Diesel trucks demand more maintenance than other pickup types and usually cost more to repair, so it’s essential that you double check them to make sure they have no underlying issue. If you were intending to buy a used diesel Ford F-150, then you should first check the coolant overflow reservoir for any sign of oil or fuel in the coolant. You should also see if any oil or fuel was able to leak into the coolant cap. If you see any leaks, then it could be a sign that that you’re dealing with either an oil cooler, EGR cooler or head gasket issue, which can cost tons to repair.

2. Check the Warranty

You should check if the smog system and drivetrain are still under warranty. Check the mileage against the federal gas emission and manufacturer’s drivetrain warranty. Some warranties extend up to 80000 miles or 8 years, whichever one comes first. This is especially important for old vehicles with more than 125000 miles on the dash, since computer and engine issues are more frequent. This is where buying a used pickup from a dealer like Bob Gillingham Ford has some benefits since they will usually offer an extended warranty on certain components after vehicles go through pre-sale service and in-house inspection.

3. Go for a Test Drive

Going for a test drive is essential for any vehicle, let alone a pickup. Make sure you take the car on a real run and use the opportunity to accelerate as much as you can and test the brake. You should ask to have at least a 15 minute drive with the vehicle, anything less and you might miss something. If you notice that the truck wanders or that there is some play in the steering, then this could be a red flag. In addition, if you notice that the truck doesn’t break in straight lines or that the acceleration is uneven, or even worse, if you notice smoke when accelerating, then you should think twice about buying this vehicle.

These are just some of the things that you should be on the lookout when buying a new pickup. In addition to these, you should also check the exterior body for any signs of rust and deterioration. Double test the transmission and check if the car switches gears correctly. Also try to get a background check on the vehicle if possible. If you manage to follow all of these tips, you should be able to get your hands on a gem.